Rainstorm destroys 100 houses, displaces families in Plateau community
Heavy Storm Ravages Tom Gangare Community, Displacing Families
A severe rainstorm struck the Tom Gangare community in Sopp Ward, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Sunday, causing extensive damage to approximately 100 homes. The storm’s impact has left many residents displaced and in urgent need of assistance.
The incident followed a period of heavy rainfall accompanied by high winds, which not only destroyed homes but also damaged health facilities, places of worship, and other vital infrastructure within the community.
Resident Mr. Bot Felix reported significant losses, estimating that property worth millions of naira was destroyed. He noted that the wind uprooted numerous trees, some of which fell onto houses, exacerbating the damage.
Dung Danboyi, a community stakeholder, described the situation as tragic and called for immediate support from government agencies and humanitarian organizations. While he expressed relief that no lives were lost, he emphasized that many families now face severe hardship without shelter.
“The level of destruction is overwhelming. Many families have lost their homes and means of livelihood,” he said. Danboyi urged the Plateau State Government, the Plateau State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and other relevant organizations to provide urgent relief materials and support.
Gwong Ibrahim, the Councillor for Sopp Ward, echoed these calls for timely intervention, noting that many affected families are struggling to secure temporary shelter and basic necessities.
In response to the disaster, Riyom Local Government Council Chairman Sati Bature Shuwa visited the affected area to assess the situation and offer his condolences to the victims. He assured residents that efforts would be made to facilitate assistance and that a comprehensive assessment of the damage would be conducted.
As recovery efforts begin, local leaders are urging a coordinated response to address the immediate needs of those affected by this calamity.
